PCA Inducts 20th Class of Leaders

Twenty years ago, Michigan Tech established the Presidential Council of Alumnae (PCA)
with two goals in mind: honor some of Tech’s most successful female alumnae and reengage
them with the University.

PCA members are recognized for personal and professional achievements in all facets
of life, including education, career excellence, community involvement, and volunteerism
as a Michigan Tech student or alumna.

Many of the members were and continue to be pioneers in the fields of science, engineering,
education, technology, forestry, entrepreneurship, and business. Many chose to enter
fields in which women remain underrepresented

The first induction event took place in the spring of 1996 with 17 inaugural members.
Since then, more than 180 alumnae have been selected, and in September, 12 new members
were inducted bringing the membership to 195.

Members meet annually on campus to participate in activities that support the University’s
strategic plan and specifically focus on engaging the campus community to educate,
influence, and inspire the women of Michigan Tech.

These alumnae enhance the University’s outreach on and off campus in countless ways,
including:

Establishing a scholarship fund for female students

Hosting Career Success sessions for students

Mentoring female students by developing leadership and professional skills

Encouraging female students, faculty, and alumnae to understand, communicate, and
accomplish their career and life choices

Enhancing diverse support for Michigan Tech through interaction by council members

The 12 members who joined the Council in September 2016 include:

Denise L. Blankinship ’84BS Business Administration VP, Business Analysis/Application Support, Church Pension Group

Distinguished Alumni Award

Humanitarian Award

James Tanis ’57 ‘58 and Janet TanisGeological Engineering/GeophysicsSedona, Arizonafounders of the Biwindi Community Program which brings hope to vulnerable children
in Biwindi, Uganda, through the power of education

Russell Gronevelt '69 was the recipient of the 2016 Board of Control Silver Medal. Presented at the Alumni
Reunion Dinner in August, this award recognizes Russ for his long service to the University
and his noteworthy personal and professional achievements. He is an outstanding example
to our students and alumni.

Alumni Board of Directors Executive Committee

President

Robert G. Wojcik ’91

Past President

Edwin F. Eiswerth ’77

Vice President

Daniel S. Batten ’88 ’90

Treasurer

Joseph A. Azzarello ’78

Secretary

Kerry A. Irons ’72

Executive Director

Brenda M. Rudiger, Alumni Engagement

Directors

Braeton Ardell, Undergraduate Student Government Representative

Chad Arney ’99

Andrew J. Burton ’97, Faculty Representative

Derek S. Chapel ’05

Joseph M. Gallo ’11

Rebecca J. Gatzke ’98

Courtney Harris, Michigan Tech Student Foundation Representative

SherAaron N. Hurt ’09

Jenna M. Joestgen ’10

Kristin J. Kolodge ’95

Will Lytle ’12, Graduate Student Government Representative

Emily C. McDonald ’12

Michael D. Peterson ’85

Dennis M. Sage ’86

Denise A. Slattery ’94

Ashwin K. Vekaria ’12

Upcoming meeting: February 9-10, 2017

If you have a question or suggestion, please contact the Alumni House at 877-688-2586
or alumni@mtu.edu.

Michigan Technological University is a public research university, home to more than
7,000 students from 54 countries. Founded in 1885, the University offers more than
120 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science and technology, engineering,
forestry, business and economics, health professions, humanities, mathematics, and
social sciences. Our campus in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula overlooks the Keweenaw Waterway
and is just a few miles from Lake Superior.

Alumni Celebrate Tech Connections

Alumni Reunion 2016 brought over 600 alumni and friends back to campus August 4-6
for three days of events. From sharing stories of 1966 at the Golden M pinning ceremony,
to the 5K run/walk for scholarships, to creating a lovable plush husky dog, new memories
were made by all ages.